What happens when UW-La Crosse mixes homecoming with Santana? The answer is UW-L Chancellor Joe Gow and a cutting edge guitar performance.
UW-L Screaming Eagles marching band baritone player Leah Rivard said, “Joe Gow has immense talent.”
Gow was hooked up to an amplifier as he played “She’s Not There” by Santana with the band during half-time at the Eagle’s homecoming football game against UW-Stout at 1 p.m Saturday, Oct. 18 on Veterans Memorial Field.
“It was really, really cool to have him play on the field with us,” said Rivard. “There was a drum break in the song and he just went on his way with his guitar.”
According to Rivard, the audience didn’t stop cheering, even after his solo.
“He was definitely rocking out,” said Rivard. “It’s cool to get that interaction between Joe Gow and the rest of the students.”
Not many universities can say their chancellor not only plays the guitar, but also put on a show for the campus in a windbreaker and jeans.
Gow has played the guitar for more than forty years and told WXOW 19 he was excited when he heard the band was doing a Santana performance.
Gow said, “I’m very grateful the band has let me be a part of what they do.”
The band seemed to have mutual feelings.
“We love that he loves us, and there’s that interaction between him and the band and every other student. I’m sure there are other schools who don’t even know who their chancellor is,” said Rivard.
Gow admitted that the performance was not something he’s ever done before, but told WXOW 19, “It’s really been a great time.”
The band also performed Santana’s “Everybody’s Everything” and “Yaleo,” as they marched in box and swirl-like formations, and the crowd continued to cheer.
“I’m not really into sports, but being at a school football game is really exciting and the fans’ reactions are great,” Rivard said.
Rivard also said the band appreciates the support of all UW-L faculty and Gow, especially.
“[Gow] was excited to see us after the performance when he visited us in the stands,” Rivard said.
According to Rivard, Gow visits the band each game.
“We can tell he loves the band,” Rivard said. “We love him, as well.”
This was apparent when Gow could be seen marching front and center with the band on their way to the groundbreaking ceremony of the new Student Center. Rivard said the band was on their way to the ceremony when they saw Gow, on his way as well, and yelled his name.
“[Gow] looked over and was like, ‘Hey!’ and just walked over and joined the front of the band,” Rivard said. “It was pretty perfect.”
The band’s next performance is for UW-L’s home football game this year at 1 p.m Saturday, Nov. 8 against UW-Platteville. The band will be playing patriotic music in honor of the veterans.